On this episode of East Texas Sports Now, Gladewater Bears head football coach Jermaine Lewis joins the show to preview the upcoming season following a successful first year leading his hometown program.

The Bears finished 10-2 last season, their highest win total since 2019, and reached the area round of the playoffs. Coach Lewis reflects on how the team’s summer buy-in, consistency, and willingness to work helped set the tone for last year’s run—and why Gladewater is focused on building from that success rather than being satisfied with it.

Lewis discusses the returning talent for the Bears, including quarterback Achilles, defensive standout Amarion Mentor, and other experienced contributors across the roster. He explains why Gladewater’s strength begins up front, with a physical offensive line and defensive front that allow the Bears to control the ball, play tough defense, and maintain the old-school Gladewater football identity.

The conversation also explores the strong relationships Lewis has built within the program and the community. Having coached many players’ parents during earlier stops in his career, Lewis talks about how those long-standing ties help create trust, accountability, and a family atmosphere around Gladewater athletics.

Coach Lewis also previews District 8-3A Division I, which includes Atlanta, Sabine, Tatum, White Oak, Liberty-Eylau, and Gladewater. While Jefferson’s departure changes the district, Lewis expects another challenging slate full of athletic, well-coached opponents.

Finally, Lewis provides an update on his son, former Gladewater standout Collin Lewis, who has transferred to Oklahoma State and is competing for a role after spending time at North Texas and UTSA. He also shares news on his daughter’s strong start to volleyball season.

Also in this episode, the show covers the UIL decision that made Trevor and Desch Golightly eligible at Troup ISD, previews key East Texas Week One football matchups, and highlights must-watch games including Longview vs. Lufkin, Gilmer vs. Pine Tree, Kilgore vs. Pleasant Grove, Daingerfield vs. Gladewater, and Quinlan Ford vs. Beckville.